Wild Turkey Rare Breed 58.4%, 70cl

Go back in time to the downright dirty history of the American speakeasy and you’ll find Angostura Orange bitters in a huge number of different drinks. Rising to prominence during prohibition many classic cocktails simplyaren’t complete without a shot of Angostura Orange. A classic example of bitters, one of the few that survived US Prohibition, flavours of orange and geranium are most prominent followed by spicy cardamom and coriander. Shake into your Martini, your Manhattan or even a classic Champagne cocktail.

With its history in apothecary Peychaud’s Bitters has a strong authentic flavour which was originally dispensed as a medicinal tonic. Of course, the signature cocktail with Peychaud’s is the Sazerac but the subtle yet spicy flavour makes it a great choice for a wide range of cocktails from Old Fashioned to Whiskey Sours and the overriding flavour in each sip is aromatic cloves. Known as a great all-rounder Peychaud’s can be mixed with virtually anything to create a complex flavour profile.

Another market leading cognac, Hennessy’s rich and full-bodied flavours strike a special balance which makes it so popular. Bright and fruity from first opening, Hennessy also has undertones of oak and once in the mouth flavours of nutty grilled almonds and a hint of fresh grapes are released. Tones of red berries and vanilla follow and ageing of a minimum of 2 years helps bolster the intense smoothness of the drink.

Exceptional and painstakingly created by an award-winning micro distiller, Sacred Gin packs a punch and is stylish as well as flavoursome. Its subtle flavours make it wonderful when poured simply over ice or with your favourite tonic and it is juniper led from the start with violet following closely behind. It builds in the mouth with red peppercorn and pine lingering after the last mouthful. The spicy heat which builds is satisfying without being overpowering, adding to the complex flavour profile Sacred offers.

A young Havana Club offering, this 7 year old Cuban rum gets its amber hues from the bourbon casks it’s matured in. The aroma is reminiscent of first thing in the morning, rich in roasted coffee with vanilla and gingerbread coming through too. Vanilla fudge is the prominent flavour when you take a sip and it’s soon paired with sweet dairy chocolate, fruit trifle and woody oak notes. The end result is a warm, rounded rum which is wonderful when mixed with ginger or lime, or both!